Queen Alia International Airport

Relating in scale to Stansted Airport and designed to grow without disruption over the next 25 years, the new terminal will accommodate nine million passengers per annum with sustained growth to twelve million. The design concept articulates a sense of Arabic hospitality, while achieving an environmentally sustainable system with its dramatic black canopy roof.

Retaining the existing runway, the scheme comprises a new terminal building that will bring a sense of clarity to the airport, streamlining circulation and establishing coherent wayfinding. Formally, the building draws on the vernacular tradition of outdoor areas and open-air gardens. These courtyards contain water pools that reflect natural light into the building and provide a comfortable microclimate, as well as a subtle means of establishing orientation inside. Large covered interior spaces form a direct relationship to the external environment and accommodate generous greeting and hospitality areas that are central to the terminal’s cultural programme.

The striking canopy roof has been inspired by the organic form of natural palm trees, while its black external surface is reminiscent of Bedouin tents. Split beams at the column junctions and generous reveals allow daylight to flood deep into the building, creating a dynamic play of light while also offering shelter from direct sunlight. The roof canopy acts as a thermal store to heat and cool the building and also conserves water by collecting rainwater and night time condensation. In addition, banks of photovoltaic panels have the potential to supplement the electricity supply, so reducing the building’s energy consumption.

Client: Marawed (National Resources Investment and Development Corporation
Consultants: Buro Happold, David Langdon, Buro Happold, NACO